The cave temple Wat Tham Chiang Dao (Thai for "cave") is an absolute must-see. Located just 5 kilometers from the city, it also features a pond with beautiful turquoise water, where large fish swim that visitors enjoy feeding. A covered staircase leads to the entrance of the main caves. One of these is illuminated and can be explored independently without any problems; there is only an entrance fee to cover the electricity costs. For all the other publicly accessible caves, hiring a local guide with a kerosene lamp is required. While not strictly necessary, bringing your own lamp seems to be mandatory these days (if you believe the signs).

Entrance fee: 40 THB (to cover the cost of cave lighting). Price for a guided tour in unlit caves: 200 THB. Guides are available on-site, but you can also book a guide for a tour of the entire Chiang Dao area. To do so, call the number provided by the TAT: 053 456 442 (I haven't tested this).

The songthaew ride from Chiang Dao bus station to Wat Tham costs 150 THB per person, but there aren't many on weekdays. The most popular guesthouses in Chiang Dao are just a short walk away anyway.

How to get there

How do you get to Wat Tham Chiang Dao? The ride by songthaew from Chiang Dao bus station to Wat Tham Chiang Dao costs 150 THB per person, but there aren't many on weekdays. However, the most popular guesthouses in Chiang Dao are just a short walk away.